Network of school based science CPD providers

Tender description

Background: The Department for Education is inviting bids for the management and delivery of the network of school based science CPD providers. The Government is committed to make Britain the best country in the world for developing STEM skills in primary, secondary and further education so Britain can grow scientifically and technologically. High quality teaching is critical to achieving this. Evidence tells us that good teaching fosters engagement, raises attainment, improves confidence and drives participation post-16. Whilst the evidence of the impact of teacher subject knowledge on the quality of teaching is mixed, there is evidence that teachers teaching out of subject specialism lack confidence, are less likely to teach in an engaging and practical way and struggle to foster enthusiasm and engagement. The confidence and ability of teachers and the lack of training and development are also factors that affect teacher retention. Description of service To manage and co-ordinate delivery of a national network of school based science CPD providers to improve the standard of science teaching by providing high quality science CPD to teachers and technicians in state-funded primary and secondary schools across England. The work of the school based science CPD providers will also incorporate targeted support to schools to improve the take-up of GCSE triple science. Responsibilities of the provider will include setting targets for each school based science CPD provider for the number of schools they work with to deliver CPD and other support and the impact they have on teaching and pupil attainment. Our expectation is that a high proportion of the funding for this contract is devolved directly to the school based science CPD providers. We would also expect the programme to develop towards a more self- sustaining, school-led model. Important aims of the support provided to schools by the school based science CPD providers are to improve teachers’ subject knowledge and pedagogy; support teachers to deliver the reformed science National Curriculum, GCSEs and A levels; and support schools to overcome barriers to offering GCSE triple science in order to increase the number of schools offering this option and the number of pupils studying it. Estimated value: The Department is inviting bids for a three year contract up to a maximum value of £2.45m in 2016-17, £3.7m in 2017-18 and £3.7m in 2018-19 (please note these figures will include any VAT that may be applicable). In addition to the core bid we would also welcome options to expand the programme of support to triple science, over the period of the contract, for a maximum value of £750,000 per year. Length of contract: 2 years 8 months – 1st August 2016 to 31st March 2019. There will be an option to extend for a further 2 years (2019 to 2021) subject to ministerial agreement and budget availability.